In The Spotlight: Valmorel

Quick facts on Valmorel

Valmorel is a charming ski resort nestled in the French Alps, known for its picturesque scenery and welcoming atmosphere. It offers a perfect mix of activities for both winter and summer holidays, with excellent skiing and snowboarding in the colder months and hiking, mountain biking, and paragliding in the warmer season. The village has a traditional, cozy alpine feel with its chalet-style architecture, making it a relaxing retreat. Its family-friendly amenities, variety of slopes, and après-ski options make Valmorel a top choice for a well-rounded holiday in the mountains.

1 -

Getting There

Valmorel is well situated for travellers. Fly to one of six airports that are only two hours’ drive from the resort with Chambéry Airport the closest at only an hour away. The more ambitious might try the nine hour drive from Calais.

Use the high speed TGV to arrive at the Moûtiers-Salins/Brides les Bains train station then book a transfer by taxi or bus.

2 -

Skiing in Valmorel

About Valmorel

Take a trip with us to the edge of a forest on the side of the Cheval Noir Mountain. Here you’ll find Valmorel, a mini-time machine of courtyards, side streets and chalets, made from traditional materials rather than steel and glass.

The resort itself was created in 1976 based on a classic Savoyard design without a high-rise in sight. The village is sleepy but stimulating with a full street of modern shops and places for you and the family to picnic. The lack of cars makes it a refreshing break from the worries of modern life.

Cyclist may recognise the area, with the local Col de la Madeleine being a perennial favourite climb in the Tour De France. Needless to say, there’s plenty of glorious Alpine scenery to be explored for those wanting to get away from the main slopes.

Skiing

The ski area around Valmorel is generally family-friendly and suited for those who see skiing as a relaxing pastime rather than an Olympic sport. With plenty of green and blue runs, you can share enjoyable moments with the family together on the slopes. But that’s not to say the red and blacks of Valmorel aren’t worth your time.

Want to combine a relaxed ski with a little sight-seeing? Take a tour down a tree-lined route to the small village of Doucy and explore its olde worlde charms before heading back up the incline to carry on with your fun.

Le Grand Domaine has a mix of levels for all skiers and offers sport all round the mountain which means you can chase the powder to find the best conditions every day.

If you’re looking for something more challenging then ask an expert to accompany you to the Massif de la Lauzière. You’ll pretty much have the slopes to yourself as its daunting reputation puts off all but the bravest skiers.

You’ll find Valmorel to be a resort that has really focused on the needs of the skier in recent years. A reliance on drag-lifts is gradually being replaced with fast and modern chairs. But above all, you’ll find Valmorel to be your type of ski resort and cross your fingers more people don’t discover its secrets.

3 -

Food and Drinks

Eating out

It might be a small village and a little quieter than other resorts but Valmorel has a great choice of restaurants offering everything from Tex-Mex to traditional fondues. You and the family will find excellent places to share a meal and talk about the day’s action on the slopes.

Le Petit Prince
Probably the most upmarket eaterie in Valmorel, this is an ideal French restaurant that gets booked up quickly. Sign up now and enjoy great cuisine in an old cottage setting.

Le Marmite
Savour the scallops cassoulet in the heart of Valmorel village. The staff are friendly and the wine goes perfectly with the juicy steaks also on offer.

Le Plancher des Vaches
If your stomach’s rumbling in Saint François Longchamp, this is the place to head for great food in a relaxing wooden interior. A true taste of Italy in France.

Bars

With over a dozen bars to choose from, there are plenty of options for those in Valmorel who want to celebrate a successful day’s skiing over a cocktail or two. Okay, it doesn’t have the boisterous atmosphere of other resorts but there’s lots of fun and late night partying to be found for those who want it.

Jimbo Lolo
This unique bar offers Tex-Mex-style apres-ski with Karaoke, dance parties and great music. Join in the fun and take a ride in the swinging wooden seats.

Les Clarines Valmorel
Situated in front of the Rocher piste, the sunny terrace is the best place to enjoy Happy Hour in the entire resort with delicious Savoyard food thrown in for good measures.

La Cordee
Head to the bottom of the piste for a mainstay of the region where the cocktails and conversation flow between happy skiers.

4 -

Discover Club Med

Club Med Valmorel

Club Med Valmorel offers an all-inclusive alpine experience that makes it an ideal choice for a holiday in the French Alps. This resort provides access to pristine ski slopes and a variety of winter sports, all while enjoying premium accommodations and gourmet dining . Whether you're a seasoned skier or a beginner, Valmorel Club Med caters to all levels, with ski lessons and equipment included. Beyond skiing, the resort offers wellness options like a spa and heated pools, making it perfect for relaxation after a day on the slopes. Valmorel is the perfect family holiday destination, with dedicated kids' clubs ensuring fun for all ages.